Open lines of communication with your childcare provider can help to build a positive rapport and provide the best possible care for your child. Providing your childcare provider with important information, discussing changes or issues, and working together can make the relationship stronger, and will benefit your child.
Here is a sample of some of the information you will want to give your child’s daycare center, nanny, or babysitter.
Allergies, Illnesses, and Medical Issues
It is important to make sure your childcare provider is aware of allergies, even if they are just mild reactions. If your child has a serious allergy that will require emergency treatment, make sure there is a plan in place should they have a reaction. The same goes for illnesses or physical issues, such as speech or motor development difficulties. If your child takes medication daily, it is important to have it on hand with a written schedule for giving it to your child, as well as an accompanying doctor’s note. If your child is only taking medication for a short time, it is still important to write down the dose, time it is to be given, and the duration that the child will take the medication.
Discipline
Discipline is an important issue for all parents. How does your center or childcare provider handle discipline issues? What way would you like them to address inappropriate behavior? Is there something you and your child have been working on at home, such as sharing or saying please and thank you, that you would like them to assist you with? Make sure that your approach to discipline and that of your childcare provider is similar. Also, review your expectations and make sure they are clear.
Scheduling
Whether you are attending a childcare center or having a nanny or come to your home, it is important to have a weekly or monthly schedule that everyone is aware of. For childcare centers, make sure you are clear on the policies for pick up and drop off, snow days, or vacation days. If you are not able to pick your child up on time, make sure that you have another person available who is able to do it. For in home care, make sure the schedule is set ahead of time. This is easy to do with today’s technology-calendars can easily be synced or emailed. Make sure you discuss sick days, vacation days, or schedule changes with your nanny or babysitter, and come up with a reasonable back up plan should these things occur.
Changes
It is important to let your childcare provider know about any changes going on in your family that may affect your child. Is one parent working extra hours or traveling frequently? Is a grandparent ill? These things may seem minor, and while you don’t have to provide a great deal of personal detail, it may be helpful just to let the caregiver know in the event your child decides to talk about it, has questions, or is feeling sad.
Alternative Arrangements
No amount of planning or communication can prevent last minute emergencies or difficulties with childcare. Have a list of emergency contacts and people who are allowed to pick up your child in case the center or babysitter cannot reach you. Also have a list of back-up childcare options in the event you cannot take your child to daycare due to illness or closures due to power outages or inclement weather. You will also need a back-up plan in the event that your nanny is ill, has car trouble, or is unable to report to work for any reason.
Technology
Use technology to your advantage! Many centers accept emails. You can also text message your nanny or sitter if there is something you forgot to tell them. Sync your calendars or schedules to make sure everyone is aware of changes. While there may not always be time to chat or discuss things, a quick message is an easy way to keep communication going.
Keeping your childcare provider well informed and having open lines of communication will only benefit your child in the long run. Having a good relationship and a strong rapport will make long term care a positive experience for everyone involved.